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Seizure Medicines for Tension Headaches

Topic Overview

Seizure medicines are drugs that
are used to treat seizures. Seizure medicines are also used to prevent
migraine headaches. And they may be used to help
prevent
tension headaches in some people. There is not good
evidence for their use in preventing tension headaches, but your doctor may
think that one of these medicines will help you if you have chronic tension
headaches:

Gabapentin
(for example, Neurontin)

Topiramate
(Topamax)

Valproate
(for example, Depakene)

Side effects of topiramate can include:

Fatigue.

A
prickling or tingling sensation in the hands and
feet.

Lack of
coordination.

Loss of appetite and weight
loss.

Inability to concentrate or speak
clearly.

Gabapentin is a well-tolerated drug that usually
causes only mild side effects. These often go away within 1 to 2 weeks and
include:

Dizziness.

Drowsiness and
fatigue.

Headache.

Weight
gain.

Foot swelling.

Side effects of valproate can include:

Fatigue.

Nausea.

Tremor
or shakiness.

Hair
loss.

Weight
gain.

Headache pain that is different than
pain from a migraine headache.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning
on seizure medicines and the risk of suicide and suicidal thoughts. The FDA
does not recommend that people stop using these medicines. Instead, people who
take seizure medicine should be watched closely for
warning signs of suicide. People who take seizure
medicine and who are worried about this side effect should talk to a
doctor.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.